Global icon Priyanka Chopra Jonas has always been known for her fierce independence and unwavering self-belief. In a rare and candid interview, the actor-producer opened up about the core philosophy that has guided her journey from Bollywood to Hollywood, emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself over the exhausting pursuit of external validation.
The Unapologetic Philosophy: "I Am Who I Am"
Speaking in an interview featured on the Goalcast platform, Priyanka Chopra shared the mindset that has been her anchor. "I am who I am. You like it great. You don't like it, I don't care. That's who I've always been," she stated with characteristic conviction. She dismissed the idea of changing oneself to fit into a new environment, whether moving to America or working in India.
She warned against overthinking and the trap of trying to be less "alien" to please others. "People have to like you or relate to you for who you are. You can't be someone else suddenly," she advised, highlighting that authenticity is the foundation of genuine connection and respect.
Choosing Legacy Over Conformity
Reflecting on the deeper choice between conformity and individuality, Priyanka presented a powerful analogy. She questioned whether one should walk the common, well-trodden path or "swim upstream like a trout against the norm." For her, the value of creating a unique legacy far outweighs the safety of blending in.
"I'd rather have something that is my path, paved by me, something that is my legacy, my own self, my own achievement, than being one of the many of the successful people in the world," she declared. This choice, she implied, is the real secret to a fulfilling and distinguished career and life.
The Psychological Cost of People-Pleasing
But why is it so difficult to adopt Priyanka's stance? Gurleen Baruah, an existential analyst, explains the common struggle. In new or high-pressure settings, looking outward for behavioral cues is a natural survival instinct. We seek acceptance and fear alienation.
However, Baruah cautions that when pleasing others becomes the primary goal, it erodes our core sense of self. "Early signs include feeling like you're performing, not being fully yourself, or needing to keep a 'mask' on all the time," she notes. The long-term consequences can be severe, leading to irritability, burnout, and a profound sadness stemming from a life lived out of alignment with one's true values.
How to Start Building Authentic Confidence
So, how can one practically begin to resist this pressure? Baruah suggests starting with introspection. "Start by sitting with yourself — quietly, honestly," she advises. Many individuals have never asked themselves fundamental questions about their values, passions, and what makes them feel alive.
Clarity on these internal pillars makes a person less shaken by external pressure. "You still adapt; you don't have to be defiant to be authentic, but the choices you make come from self-awareness, not just external approval," Baruah clarifies. True confidence, she asserts, grows when your actions feel like your own.
The Quiet Price of the "Safer" Path
Choosing the socially accepted, safer route may offer stability, but Baruah warns of its hidden costs. Over time, it can foster feelings of restlessness, disconnection, and a nagging sense of "Is this all there is?"
"The cost of not listening to your deeper self shows up slowly — sometimes as regret, sometimes as burnout, or even envy of those who took risks," she explains. The expert concludes that a meaningful life doesn't require grand gestures but must resonate with one's inner truth. "It does have to be yours," she emphasizes, echoing Priyanka Chopra's central message of owning one's unique journey.
